Introduction

In a groundbreaking development for patients suffering from sleep apnoea, a first-of-its-kind app-controlled device has been implanted in individuals experiencing this common sleep disorder in the UK. Known as the Nyxoah Genio implant, this innovative technology stimulates the nerves in the tongue to facilitate better breathing during sleep.

Understanding Sleep Apnoea

Sleep apnoea, a condition estimated to affect around 8 million people across the UK, leads to repeated interruptions in breathing during the night. The most prevalent type, obstructive sleep apnoea, occurs when the throat's walls relax and narrow, resulting in symptoms like loud snoring, choking sounds, and frequent awakenings.

The Surgical Procedure

Earlier this month, a team of expert medics from the University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH) performed a three-hour procedure to fit this pioneering implant into two patients. Among them was Natalie Boller, 63, who reported significant improvements within days of the surgery. She expressed her excitement about regaining an active lifestyle, something chronic exhaustion had hindered for years. Natalie is scheduled to return to the clinic shortly to have her device activated.

UCLH's Trailblazing Role

UCLH has also made history as the first medical center in the UK to provide sleep apnoea patients with a selection of nerve stimulators, including both the Genio and the established Inspire implant. These devices target the hypoglossal nerve, which governs tongue movements, offering a viable alternative for those who do not respond well to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines.

Current Treatments and Patient Needs

CPAP therapy remains the standard treatment for sleep apnoea, requiring users to wear a mask that delivers pressurized air. While effective, many find this method uncomfortable, prompting a search for alternative solutions.

Expert Insights

Consultant ENT and sleep surgeon Ryan Chin Taw Cheong voiced optimism about the advancements in this field, expressing hope that this technology can be widely accessible to patients who could benefit from it.

The Genio Implant Mechanism

During the operation, surgeons made a small 6cm incision beneath Natalie’s chin to precisely locate the nerves responsible for tongue movement. The Genio implant is externally controlled via a chip that adheres to the chin with an adhesive patch, allowing patients to recharge the device during the day. With the connected smartphone app, users can monitor their sleep patterns and customize the stimulation levels.

Eligibility for Treatment

To qualify for this innovative treatment, patients must have a body mass index below 35 and a diagnosis of moderate to very severe sleep apnoea, in addition to having previously tried CPAP therapy.

Conclusion

Ryan Taw Cheong concluded, “We’re committed to advancing this field to ensure that when patients visit our clinics, they can trust they are receiving the best treatment options available for sleep apnoea anywhere in the world.” This groundbreaking procedure not only offers hope to millions but also paves the way for the future of sleep disorder treatments in the UK and beyond—could this be the breakthrough many have been waiting for?